<![CDATA[Background: Dental plaque is a major contributor to oral diseases. In urban poor communities, limited access to dental care is often compounded by behavioral and psychosocial barriers. Purpose: This preliminary cross-sectional study, guided by the Health Belief Model (HBM), aimed to assess oral health knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors (KAB) and their relationship with dental plaque scores among urban poor communities in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Methods: This study involved 124 adults aged 18–59 years from two government-subsidized flats in Kuala Lumpur. Oral health KAB were measured using a validated self-administered questionnaire guided by the HBM, and plaque levels were assessed clinically using the Plaque Control Record. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 29.0, employing both descriptive and bivariate analyses. Significance level was set at p<0.05. Results: The mean plaque score was 50.5 (SD=20.5), and 77.4% demonstrated poor oral hygiene. Lower plaque scores were significantly associated with correct knowledge about toothbrushing and the link between gum disease and bad breath, reflecting perceived benefits and cues to action. Higher plaque scores were linked to low self-efficacy and perceived barriers, such as difficulty using dental floss. Use of fluoridated toothpaste and dental floss was significantly associated with lower plaque levels, highlighting the perceived benefits and self-efficacy. Conclusion: The HBM helps to identify psychosocial and behavioral determinants of oral hygiene. Tailored interventions should focus on reducing barriers, increasing self-efficacy, and promoting practical oral care behaviors to promote sustainable oral health change.]]>
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